Ultimate Guide to Hiking Angels Landing in Zion National Park

The infamous Angels Landing hike in Utah is an epic and thrilling trail that attracts thousands of hikers annually to the Zion National Park.

This challenging hike takes you up the steep slope of a sandstone mountain, featuring chains for safety and breathtaking vistas of Zion surrounding you.

The chain section of Angels Landing is renowned for its exhilarating and hazardous nature, having seen several tragic falls over the years. However, it remains safe if hikers exercise caution.

Since 2022, permits have become mandatory, and you can obtain them through a lottery system managed by the National Park Service, or you may book a guided hike that includes permits.

This trail may not be suitable for everyone, but if you’re seeking adventure, photography, and an adrenaline rush, make sure to add it to your bucket list!

This travel guide for Angels Landing details how to acquire permits, locate the trailhead, hike safely, and everything else you need to prepare for this breathtaking experience!

Quick Facts

• Distance: 4.5 miles (7.2 km) round trip
• Elevation Gain: 1,500 feet (460 m)
• Top Elevation: 5,790 feet (1,765 m)
• Duration: 3 – 6 hours round trip
• Difficulty: Hard

Angels Landing Hike: What To Expect

Angels Landing is a scenic trail that ascends from the canyon up a rugged mountain ridge, where hikers must hold onto metal chains for safety.

This highly popular trail witnesses significant foot traffic, however, the crowd levels have become more manageable with the introduction of the permit system.

Though the hike is relatively safe with caution, it is not recommended for young children, unfit older adults, or those who are uncomfortable with heights. Fatal accidents have occurred on the chain section of Angels Landing.

The subsequent sections will elaborate on each part of the trail and clarify what to anticipate. Completing this hike is absolutely rewarding!

• Angels Landing Switchbacks

The Angels Landing hike commences on a flat, paved path but quickly gains elevation after crossing the Virgin River bridge.

You will proceed along these switchbacks for the next mile. Shade is scarce, making it essential to stay hydrated, but the wide path provides stunning canyon views right from the start.

As you continue to climb these switchbacks, your views of Zion Canyon become increasingly spectacular.

• Refrigerator Canyon

After traversing a mile of exhausting switchbacks, you will enter Refrigerator Canyon, named for its refreshing cool temperatures.

The path flattens momentarily, providing a much-needed chance to catch your breath after the strenuous ascent. Here, we even discovered a small cave, perfect for a brief respite.

Refrigerator Canyon is one of the rare shaded sections along the hike, so savor it while you can.

• Walter’s Wiggles

Get ready for more switchbacks! This section, known as Walter’s Wiggles, includes numerous relentless twists that will definitely test your endurance.

There are 21 switchbacks in total, with an elevation gain of approximately 250 feet over this short stretch.

• Scout Lookout

Upon reaching the 2-mile mark, after tackling Walter’s Wiggles, you will arrive at Scout Lookout.

This spacious viewpoint allows you to gaze out at Angels Landing and the canyon below, without navigating steep cliffs or relying on chains just yet.

This is the last point accessible without a permit, marked by signs urging caution. Take this opportunity to catch your breath, as the next section gets intense!

• Angels Landing Chain Section

Now begins the most exhilarating aspect: the chain section of Angels Landing!

This thrilling yet perilous part of the hike attracts many adventurers to this iconic spot.

The trail can narrow to just a few feet, and hikers must closely hug the mountainside. While not every part features chains, the most precarious portions do for your protection.

Though the chain segment is approximately half a mile long or less, it may feel longer due to the necessity of moving cautiously.

For safety, ensure at least one hand is always on a chain, especially when passing oncoming hikers. It’s crucial to remain vigilant and prioritize safety above all.

• Top Of Angels Landing Summit

Finally, you’ll reach the end of the chain section and the summit of Angels Landing. Congratulations!

Even beyond the chains, maintain vigilance, as people have accidentally fallen while trying to take pictures at the ledge. In fact, much of the hiking fatalities occur from this summit rather than the chain section.

For the best views, continue walking further along until you reach the mountain’s end. This area is frequented by curious chipmunks, eager to share your snacks.

The panoramic view from the top gives an extraordinary 360-degree perspective of Zion Canyon, showcasing the winding roads and tiny shuttle buses below.

It’s undoubtedly one of the most impressive sights within Zion National Park and remains a highlight from all hikes experienced.

Please remember to keep the trail clean, respect fellow hikers, and leave no trace. Thank you!

How Long Is Angels Landing Hike?

The Angels Landing hike can take anywhere from 3 to 6 hours for a round trip, contingent upon your hiking pace and fitness level. Typically, a time of around 4 hours is considered average.

How Safe Is The Angels Landing Hike?

Angels Landing is relatively safe, provided hikers remain cautious. In 2019, more than 300,000 individuals successfully completed the trail. I myself have hiked it twice and would gladly return.

However, this hike is not recommended for young children, unfit adults, or those uncomfortable with heights, as falls have occurred.

Avoid attempting Angels Landing during extreme weather conditions such as wind, rain, snow, or ice, as slippery rocks pose additional risks.

What To Bring To Angel’s Landing

• Shoes. Opt for sturdy hiking shoes with good grip, as this trail is not suited for sandals.
• Water. Aim to carry at least 3 liters per person; hydration is essential in Utah’s dry climate.
• Snacks. Pack some granola bars and other energy-dense snacks to enjoy at the summit.
• Sunscreen. The majority of the trail lacks shade, making sunscreen and a hat necessary to protect against the strong sun.
• Gloves. While optional, gloves can enhance grip on the chains, yet many find it unnecessary.
• Phone. While reception is often weak, you may find signal at the summit, which can be helpful for communications or capturing photos.

When To Hike Angel’s Landing

The ideal seasons for hiking Angels Landing are spring, summer, or fall. Winter hiking is feasible, provided there’s no snow or ice on the trail.

Summer attracts the warmest weather and the largest crowds; however, starting early in the morning can mitigate these issues. The shoulder seasons (spring and fall) feature optimal weather and are generally less crowded.

Regardless of the season, the best time to embark on this hike is early in the morning, which helps to beat both high temperatures and foot traffic.

Where Is Angels Landing?

Angels Landing is located within Zion National Park, situated in the southwestern corner of Utah.

Within easy driving distance from Page, Arizona, or Las Vegas, Nevada, the park is approximately 2.5 hours from Las Vegas and 4.5 hours from Salt Lake City.

Is Angels Landing Open / Closed?

The Angel’s Landing hike is accessible year-round, barring maintenance or severe weather events.

For updates on any trail closures, visit the Zion National Park website.

Entrance Fee

A park pass is required to enter Zion National Park and can be conveniently purchased online or at the park entrance.

Many visitors opt for the annual pass, which permits entry to several U.S. parks, while daily passes are also available. Current fees and details are found on the Zion National Park website.

Angels Landing Lottery Permit System

As of 2022, the National Park Service mandates day-use permits (by lottery) for the Angels Landing chain section. This new system was introduced to alleviate overcrowding and enhance safety.

Prior to the change, Angels Landing averaged over 1,200 hikers daily during peak seasons. Since permits became necessary, hiker numbers have decreased significantly, making the experience safer.

How To Get Angels Landing Permits

Permits for Angels Landing can be obtained through a seasonal lottery well before your visit, along with some permits available via a day-before lottery for those unable to secure one in advance.

Permits are required only for the Angels Landing chain section, allowing hikers to reach Scout Lookout without a permit, which can be beneficial for groups.

The application fee is currently $6 USD (allowing entry for up to 6 individuals), with an additional $3 per person if granted a permit. All fees are non-refundable.

Can You Hike Angels Landing Without A Permit?

It’s crucial to note that attempting to hike Angels Landing without a permit is highly discouraged. Relying on the National Park Service regulations, rangers can request permits at any point on the trail.

You can certainly hike up to Scout Lookout without a permit, but accessing the chain section without one could result in hefty fines or jail time.

If you don’t win a permit, consider hiking to Scout Lookout and returning or undertaking the Observation Point hike, which features some of Zion’s finest vistas.

Where To Stay At Zion

Thanks for exploring this comprehensive guide on experiencing the Angels Landing trail in Zion National Park, Utah.